University of the East defeats CSB in V-League opener

The University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors secured a five-set victory against the College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Lady Blazers in their 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge opener. The match, held at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City, ended with scores of 25-21, 25-16, 22-25, 14-25, and 15-8.

UE appeared to be in control after winning the first two sets, but CSB fought back to force a deciding fifth set. In the final frame, UE established a lead, turning an 8-4 advantage into a 12-5 cushion. Janessa Buhay led the Lady Warriors with 23 points, including 22 attacks and one ace, while also contributing 11 digs and nine excellent receptions. Bea Zamudio added 18 points, and rookie setter Cheska Peñol recorded eight excellent sets in her collegiate debut.

For the Lady Blazers, Mhonniecka Soliven recorded 19 points and 11 excellent receptions, while Grace Borromeo and Fiona Inocentes each contributed 17 points. This victory marks UE’s return to the V-League competition for the first time since 2024.